Best lakes around Burwash provide diverse outdoor experiences in East Sussex, a region characterized by its tranquil Wealden valleys and significant bodies of water. The area offers access to various lakes, from secluded fishing spots to large country parks. These locations are appreciated for their natural settings and range of recreational activities, making them popular for things to do near Burwash.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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"Spring has arrived – and the sun has melted the ice on the mill pond. Its rays reach to the bottom of the pond – and tickle awake the little water sprite, who has been hibernating with his mermaid parents. And what's the first thing a curious little water sprite does? Spring cleaning with his mother? Repairing the broken roof of the water sprite's house? Wrong! Of course, the little water sprite's first priority is to meet his old friend, Cyprinus the carp... The little water sprite isn't quite as cheeky here as in the 1955 original – but Daniel Napp's little spring story has been enchantingly illustrated. A magical, endearing, and ageless reading experience for children ages 4 and up." The Stiftung Lesen (Reading Foundation) reviews a four-volume sequel to the popular "The Little Water Sprite" by Otfried Preußler (1923 to 2013), which guides children through the seasons in this children's book series.
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The complex is dominated by the manor house on the hill and the ruin further down in the valley. The ruin was "created" from a functioning house several hundred years old by the owners of the manor house in order to obtain a romantic view. The two buildings are embedded in a beautiful garden. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle
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At the back exit of Bateman's and therefore worth visiting even if you are not visiting the park and the house. We walked a very long way around the grounds - the only benches were here 😳
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This garden, which is not so well known internationally, gave us so much joy! Incredible flowers, and that in April. The "new" house can be visited, the old one is just a very picturesque ruin. Entry per adult £17, NT members excluded. Parking was free today, the guidebook said £4 (?) Café extremely friendly and really good cake.
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Parking is £7 per car for a full day. No other options for shorter periods. Cafe, toilets, bike hire, laser tag and water sport activities on site. Plenty of space to park on weekends. Great views of the reservoir and access to walking trails.
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Managed by Forestry England, the National Pinetum is home to over 12000 specimens of trees and is a great place to visit for anyone interested in conservation. The adjacent forest is full of tracks and trails for cycling, walking, running and a tree top adventure, Go Ape. Take a moment out from your ride and breathe it all in. There is also a visitors centre with toilets and a cafe on site.
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The mill pond sits in front of Park Watermill. The present mill was built in around 1750 but there has been a mill here since the 13th century. The mill is part of the Bateman's estate. Once home to Rudyard Kipling and now in the care of the National Trust.
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A very romantic ruined castle in a lake.
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The lakes around Burwash offer a diverse range of activities. You can enjoy fly fishing at places like Lakedown Trout Fishery, which also has a tap room. For more active pursuits, Bewl Water is excellent for cycling, boat trips, and adventure playgrounds. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest provides extensive trails for walking and cycling, including a 10 km family paved trail. For a more tranquil experience, explore the gardens and historical sites like Scotney Castle and Gardens.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Bewl Water is a large country park offering activities like cycling, boat trips, and children's play areas. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest features a 10 km family paved trail and adventure playgrounds along the route. Scotney Castle and Gardens also welcomes families to explore its historical grounds and picturesque lake.
For a blend of history and natural beauty, visit Scotney Castle and Gardens. It features the ruins of a medieval, moated manor house situated on an island within a small lake, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Another historical site is Park Watermill Pond, which is part of the Bateman's estate, once home to Rudyard Kipling, with a mill dating back to the 13th century.
While some natural lakes are managed as nature reserves with restrictions, active water recreation is primarily found at designated sites. For swimming, it's best to check directly with larger water parks or specific activity centers like Bewl Water for any permitted swimming areas or organized water sports, as wild swimming is generally restricted to protect wildlife and for safety reasons.
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Lakedown Trout Fishery, for example, is noted for its abundant aquatic fly life. Bewl Water, as a large clean water reservoir, hosts a wide variety of wildlife. The Winding Road Through Pevensey Levels SSSI is also known for its great wildlife, particularly around its canals and ponds.
Absolutely. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest offers miles of trails, including three distinct cycling routes and a 10 km family paved trail. Bewl Water has a popular 12-mile circuit suitable for both walking and cycling. For more hiking options, you can explore various routes listed in the hiking guide for Burwash, which includes trails like the 'Burwash loop to Bateman's'.
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas to gardens like Scotney Castle. Summer is ideal for water activities at Bewl Water and cycling at Bedgebury. Autumn provides spectacular foliage, especially at Scotney Castle. Winter offers tranquil walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Yes, several locations offer refreshments. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest has a cafe serving locally sourced food. Bewl Water also features a cafe and various food options. Lakedown Trout Fishery includes a tap room for local craft beers. For other walks, it's advisable to check specific venue details or bring your own provisions.
Cycling is a popular activity. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest offers three distinct cycling trails, including a 10 km family paved trail. Bewl Water has a well-known 12-mile circuit around the lake. For more gravel biking options, you can consult the gravel biking guide for Burwash, which lists routes like the 'Bewl Water Lake Circuit'.
While specific accessibility details vary, larger sites like Bewl Water and Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest often have paved paths or accessible sections. For example, Bedgebury features a 10 km family paved trail. It's recommended to check the individual venue's website for detailed accessibility information before your visit.
Many outdoor areas in the region are dog-friendly, especially for walks. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest and Bewl Water generally welcome dogs on leads in most outdoor areas. However, specific rules may apply to certain buildings, gardens, or nature reserves, so it's always best to check the specific site's guidelines beforehand.
Most major attractions like Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest and Bewl Water have dedicated parking facilities, often with a charge. For instance, Bedgebury has a car park fee, and Bewl Water has a reasonable parking charge. For smaller or more remote locations, parking might be limited to roadside spots or small car parks, so planning ahead is advisable.


Still not found your perfect lake around Burwash? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.